DPS troopers uncover 49 bundles of marijuana during traffic stop

Texas Department of Public Safety troopers discover $328,960 worth of marijuana after a traffic stop on Thursday on U.S. Highway 59 between Loop 463 and Telferner.

Texas Department of Public Safety troopers seized $328,960 worth of marijuana during a traffic stop Thursday.

About 12:51 a.m., a DPS trooper stopped a 2004 Ford F-150 pickup that was traveling north on U.S. Highway 59 between Loop 463 and Telferner, said DPS Trooper and public information officer, Gerald Bryant.

After observing the pickup commit two traffic violations, the trooper attempted to stop the vehicle.

But before the trooper could approach the vehicle, the driver pulled into a ditch and its occupants escaped.

When the trooper finally approached the vehicle, he observed bundles of marijuana in plain sight in the back seat area.

Upon further inspection, he observed more bundles in the pickup's tool box.

A total of 49 bundles of marijuana, weighing 822.40 pounds, were discovered.

The marijuana had a street value of $328,960, Bryant said.

Troopers were unable to locate the pickup's occupants.

"With evidence left at the scene, the investigation will continue," said Bryant.